I have determined that there is a need for new leadership in the Forks Police Department. As a result, and pursuant to FMC [Forks Municipal Code] 2.30.010, I have dismissed Mike Powell from the position of Chief of Police for the City of Forks. I will have no further comment at this point.

In the days ahead I will be further assessing the direction and structure of the Forks Police Department. In addition, I will be developing my expectations for the new chief of police in relationship to the operations of the Forks Police Department.

Deputy Chief Lloyd Lee will be acting chief for the immediate future."

Other than saying that Powell is an at-will employee exempt from civil service rules, Monohon would give no reason for today's dismissal to the Peninsula Daily News.

Powell has been criticized over several years and consistently defended by former Mayor Nedra Reed. Powell was cleared of all accusations following investigations into the dismissals of personnel within the Police Department.

Monohon took over as Forks mayor Jan. 1. Forks operates on a "strong mayor" system in which the mayor serves as the city's unpaid manager.

“I have determined that there is a need for new leadership in the Forks Police Department," Monohon said in a written statement.